Established Homes vs. A New Apartment

Why First Home Buyers Are Choosing New Apartments in Melbourne’s Inner City

For first home buyers, getting a foot in the property market can feel like a huge challenge—especially in Melbourne’s inner city, where period homes often come with million-dollar price tags. But there’s good news: new apartments are opening the door to home ownership in some of the city’s most vibrant suburbs.

At Harvest Square in Brunswick West, first home buyers are discovering the perfect balance of affordability, lifestyle and modern living. Here’s why a new apartment could be your smartest first step onto the property ladder.

1. Affordable Entry into a Prime Location

While period homes in Brunswick now average around $1.26 million—and larger homes push past $1.5 million—apartments remain far more accessible. One-bedroom apartments can start from around $380k, with the median new apartment sitting closer to $565k. That’s a big difference when you’re trying to get into the market for the first time.

2. Move-In Ready, No Renovation Stress

Unlike established homes that may need costly updates, new apartments come with fresh finishes, energy-efficient appliances and modern layouts. Everything is brand new—so you can focus on making the space your own with furniture and personal style, not renovating someone else’s choices.

3. Low-Maintenance Living

Forget the stress of upkeep and repairs. A new apartment means no gardens to maintain, double-glazed windows for comfort and noise control, and a lock-up-and-leave lifestyle that suits busy schedules. Perfect for young professionals or students balancing work, study, and social lives.

4. Lifestyle on Your Doorstep

At Harvest Square, you’re surrounded by everything that makes Brunswick West one of Melbourne’s most in-demand suburbs. Think local cafés, fresh food markets, bike paths, leafy parks, and easy tram links to universities, the CBD and the iconic shopping and dining strips of Lygon and Brunswick Streets. It’s inner-city living at its best.

5. First Home Buyer Grants and Incentives

Here’s the bonus: if you’re buying your first home and it’s a brand-new apartment under the price cap, you may be eligible for the $10,000 First Home Owner Grant in Victoria. That’s a serious boost to your budget and can help you take the leap sooner.

Harvest Square, Brunswick West offers a boutique collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments designed with first home buyers in mind. With over half already sold and residents moved in, these homes won’t last long.

Call Garrick today to book a private viewing of our display and see how Harvest Square can be your first step into home ownership in Melbourne’s inner city.

Sales prices and medians based on realestate.com.au data as at 9/9/2025.